2019 Worksafe Victoria Awards nominations now open

Workplace health and safety regulator Worksafe Victoria is encouraging businesses and employees who “go the extra mile for health and safety” to nominate for the 2019 Worksafe Victoria Awards.

The awards recognise achievement of those working towards safer workplaces, the wellbeing of workers, and safety of businesses in Victoria.

For the first time, Worksafe Victoria will award the winner of each category a $2,000 cash prize.

Health and Safety Representative of the Year

Health and Safety Invention of the Year

Best Solution to a Specific Workplace Health and Safety Issue

Best Solution to a Manual Handling Issue

OHS Leadership/Achievement Award

Commitment to Workplace Health, Safety and Wellbeing

Leading Return to Work Practice by an Employer

Return to Work Coordinator Excellence

Worker Return to Work Achievement Award

Nominees are judged based on their submitted solution. Judges look for whether the solution is novel, innovative, and suited for transfer to other workplaces.

Judges also look for how well the solution applies the hierarchy of control, how it alters a workplace risk profile, the level of commitment to the solution, and the level of consultation involved. An evaluation of added benefits is also taken into consideration.

Nominations are open to all Victorian employees and employers. Entrants may either nominate themselves or another person.

“Workplace health and safety has improved dramatically since the awards began in 1988 but workers continue to be killed and injured at work,” said WorkSafe Chief Executive Clare Amies.

“These awards honour the achievements of employers and workers who are determined to make health and safety a priority and who are doing everything they can to help injured workers return to work.”

“They deserve recognition for their efforts, and I encourage them to enter so they can share their ideas with others.”

Previous winners include an arborist injured in a workplace car accident who overcame physical limitations to get back to work; and a company that introduced reusable marine platforms to reduce the risks of staff working over water.

Entries close on 31 May. Winners will be announced at a gala dinner in Melbourne on 31 October during Health and Safety Month.